Once More for 2010

Just under six hours remain in the year 2010 as I write these words. Let me get in one more blog post before 2011 arrives.
On Friday 17 December, two IPMS Gateway clubmates and I came to Gravois Bluffs Shopping Center in Fenton, Missouri. Y98 radio was hosting a marathon broadcast that day, and this was the opportunity for our club to donate our $451 raised in the past year to the US Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots. I presented the check to the USMCR on our behalf and the Marines were very pleased to receive the money. Thanks to the generosity of club members and Gateway Invitational attendees (due to the club's 50/50 raffles, silent auctions of kits, and the big raffle at the Invitational), some Metro St. Louis children had a Merry Christmas with a toy under the tree. (Tom Bogacki took the photo you see here of me holding the check with two of the Marines.)
That night, I went to Stress Free Fridays at Palomino Lounge on Delmar in west St. Louis. Had a fine time with the gang.
The next day (18 Dec.), I refereed futsal at Omni in St. Peters, Missouri that afternoon, then went home to change and then to DePaul Health Center in Bridgeton, Missouri for the IPMS Gateway banquet. It was a fine event, with good food and company. I was master of ceremonies and didn't do too bad, I think. In that capacity, I presented our Ron Foulks (Modeler of the Year) and Bob Stroup (Outstanding Achievement) awards. Tom Bogacki won the former and Tony Kirk the latter, although Tony could not be present, due to the funeral of his stepson earlier that day. The banquet's featured speaker was Sgt. Clarence Cherry, a B-17 Flying Fortress waist gunner who flew 29 missions over Europe in World War II. He served in the 100th Bomb Wing (Heavy), 8th Air Force in England. It was fascinating to hear Sgt. Cherry's tales of the missions over German-held Europe and the stateside training that came before and after his combat tour.
IPMS Gateway's meeting on 21 Dec. was memorable for me on two counts. One, I was reelected president by acclamation for 2011 (no other candidate stepped up). Two, I won a raffle prize in our big kit raffle held at the December meeting. I selected a two-ship kit.
The good health slipped from me Christmas Eve morning, when I woke up to vomiting. I caught stomach flu and was bed ridden for almost all that Friday and much of Christmas day. Not the best of time to be sick, for sure. I had to back out of a luncheon date with my good friend from high school Tim Popp, who was in town for the holiday. I was well enough to open presents Christmas morning with my parents. Among the gifts I got was a new day planner binder (the one I had dated back to 1994 and showed it), and a new watch I can use for my soccer refereeing. It was a nice Christmas, otherwise.
On a sad note, my sister in-law Linnea Hauge died Saturday morning after battling breast cancer. She was 46 years old and was a sister of my brother Brian's wife, Gretchen. I met Linnea at Brian and Gretchen's wedding in 2000 and she came across to me as a bright and nice person. So sad to see someone like her taken away well before her time. RIP, Linnea, and my deepest condolences to everyone near and dear to her.
Having recovered from the stomach flu, I ran the IPMS Gateway business meeting Tuesday night (28 Dec.) at Mike George's house in Florissant, Missouri. We planned our January meeting (the annual Swap & Sell and Kit Auction), plus determined the special categories for our 2011 contests towards Modeler of the Year. Check out the club at http://ipms-gateway.com.
The last two nights, I was at the Immacolata Catholic Church's gymnasium in Richmond Heights, Missouri. The 2nd Annual Mary McDermott 3rd Grade Basketball Tournament was held this week, with girls and boys teams from Immacolata and other Catholic parishes playing. Mary McDermott was the daughter of my friend, Bill McDermott, graphic designer and St. Louis' Mr. Soccer. Mary died from a heart ailment in 2008, aged only 24. All proceeds from this event benefit the Hybrid Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center in St. Louis. It felt good to show up and support this most worthy cause.
Anyway, that's it for 2010. See you in 2011! Let's all hope it a very good year for all of us.
Later.

Staying Warm and Busy

It's a cold day here in St. Louis, with the temperature at 18 degrees F right now. We got a bit of snow (about 2 inches) late last Saturday night/Sunday morning, and the snow is still on the ground. It looks like a bit of sleet is on the way for tomorrow.
Back on 2 December, I went to a happy hour in Ferguson with the StraightUp HookUps MeetUp group. We had a fine time at the Cork Wine Bar. Then, it was on to the Tivoli Theater in the Delmar Loop to see the documentary "Pelada," on two Americans finding and playing pickup soccer around the world. Very interesting film and I definitely recommend it.
The next night, after a brief visit to Stress Free Fridays, I was in University City for a birthday dinner honoring soccer great Harry Keough. It was a nice dinner and I got to chat with a coach who runs a youth soccer program in St. Louis, New Dimentions, which helps immigrant children bond with local kids. A worthy cause, I think. On Saturday the 4th, I refereed the first futsal matches of the new season. My partner and I made sure the coaches were up to speed with some rule changes for this season, and generally the games went well. I also worked some games last Saturday night.
Last Wednesday afternoon, I finished a project I started late last month for a friend, Tom Doll, an aviation historian and author. He asked me to type up the manuscript (text and photo captions) of his latest book and to save it on CD, so he can then them to the publisher. (Tom doesn't have a computer.) I got the job done and when I saw him in Clayton that night he was most appreciative of my efforts. The book should come out in the latter half of 2011; I'll withhold the details of what it's about until then.
Lately, I've been proofreading documents for a friend. He asked me to proof a report from his work place. I have done the first tranche of pages, and just received the next bunch yesterday for me to work on. Will get going on those later today.
A week ago, I ran the IPMS St. Louis meeting, in which we continued to add models to the display we have this month at our meeting site, the Thornhill Branch of the St. Louis County Library. It looks quite nice and I made sure to include club flyers in the case so people know who put this display on. You can find out more at http://www.ipms-stlouis.org.
That's it for now. I'm trying to stay warm. Later.

Seeing Family & Being Thankful

This past week, my brothers Rick and Doug came to town for Thanksgiving. Doug and his girlfriend Helen flew in from Los Angeles last Wednesday. It was the first time I met Helen, and she's a very nice young woman. Rick, his wife Melissa and their son Alex drove up from Charleston, South Carolina and arrived later on Wednesday. Brian, my third brother, could not make it, as his sister-in-law is very ill and instead went to her parents in law in Wisconsin for the holiday.
We had a nice time, with Mom preparing turkey & company for us. We also got to see some friends and relatives of Rick, Melissa, and Doug for a while. Both brothers headed back home yesterday. It was real good seeing them, and for them seeing my parents and I.
Also last week, I received two copies of the inaugural issue of Naturally Autistic magazine. This is the publication of ANCA Consulting, Inc. for which I edited and fact checked articles earlier this year. The magazine looks real nice and I am proud and happy to see my work in print for others to see. ANCA's working on the next issue already, and should have some items for me to edit from mid-December.
Wrapped up the fall outdoor season a week ago today. Games in the final weeks went well. Last week, took in the futsal recertification clinic. Quite a few changes in the laws to know. I'll take the online test this week to get recertified. The new futsal season gets underway this coming weekend. I'll also have some outdoor winter league games starting next month.
Scale modeling activities are fine. Haven't been back to working on my latest project in awhile, due to other things happening. Ran the IPMS Gateway general and business meetings the past two weeks. Elections for 2011 officers are on tap for next month. I'm willing to run again for president.
With Thanksgiving in the rear view mirror, Christmas is on its way. My brothers and I agreed to a gift exchange, so we only have to buy for one brother instead of all three. My wish list is already made out. This week, I need to get my Christmas card list finalized and my Christmas newsletter done.
Also, I need to get moving on finishing to type up and save on disc the manuscript and photo captions for a new book a friend is writing. I hope to get this all done by the end of next week at the latest.
That's it for now. Take care. Later.

A Successful Campaign Ends and Other Matters

It's been a week and two days since the election. The last few days saw me helping get out the vote for Charlie Dooley -- right up to about 4 hours before the polls closed on Election Day. I went to the watch party in Westport that night, where some of my fellow campaign workers were present. We were a bit downcast early on as the results showed Dooley trailing Bill Corrigan, but Dooley and his campaign chief assured us the Democratic-leaning North County precincts were yet to be heard. Those precincts were heard about quarter past 11 pm and they put Dooley over the top. We were so happy and in a very celebratory mood. I was so gratified that my efforts were a success. I even shook Dooley's hand later that night, just before I left the hotel to go home. (First time I met him, by the way.)
Besides that, I've been refereeing some more games. Well into the fall season, and besides some league matches I also worked two games last Saturday in the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), a girls' traveling league. Some good competition. Sunday morning (early -- as in a 7 pm kickoff!), I worked games of a college showcase girls' tournament in St. Charles. They went fine.
Went to a breakfast time networking event in Ballwin last Tuesday morning. Met a few people to follow up with. Going to a networking event in Richmond Heights tomorrow. Hope that is worth my time. Yesterday morning, I visited a dentist for the first time in about 5 years. Taking advantage of a major discount offer online, I got my teeth X-rayed and cleaned. They found a couple of slight cavities, but nothing that had to be done right away. I made an appointment for six months from now and hopefully I'll have full time work then to better afford this care. Last night, I was at a MeetUp of local singles. We discussed online dating, and I brought out printouts of my singles site profiles for them to critique. Their feedback was most appreciated. I just joined one this afternoon and laready have some interest.
That's it for now. Sorry it took awhile since my last post, but I've for some reason found it hard to get myself to do this. Hopefully, it won't be quite as long until my next post here.
Later.

More of the Same of Late

In the past three weeks, not much for me to write about for you. Been busy with canvassing for Charlie Dooley's camapign three days a week (two weeknights, one weekend daytime), plus phone banking one night a week. Been going well. Saturday, we shifted into get out the vote mode, reminding our likely supporters to vote on 2 November -- just eight days from now. www.charliedooley.com
Been out on Fridays with Stress Free Fridays. The past three Fridays have been me joining the group at the Ice Kitchen in Westport Plaza, the Avenue Lounge in north St. Louis, and the In Spot in west St. Louis. Been having a fine time, including dancing and chatting with some of the gals.
Soccer refereeing has been going well on Sundays. Well into the fall season now, with about a month left in that. Futsal starts the beginning of December.
It's been confirmed that all three of my brothers, with their significant others and kids, will be in town for Thanksgiving. This should be great.
That's it for now. Later.

Taking to the Streets and the Pitch

I've been continuing my political canvassing work lately. It's going well, and things are picking up with the election just under one month away. Should be real interesting.
On 21 Sept., I ran the IPMS Gateway meeting, which had a wrap up of the Invitational held 10 days before. We had three people at our meeting for the first time, and it appears all three decided to join our club. Great to hear!
A weekend of contrasts followed this meeting. Friday night the 24th, I was in the audience at Forest Park Community College for the forum of 3rd Congressional District candidates. I and others lent our support to incumbent Russ Carnahan, while others supported opponent Ed Martin. At least it was rather peaceful.
The next night, I went to a party on the terrace of Pointe 400, the former Pet building in downtown St. Louis. It was a nice time, and I got in some dancing until the rains came, when we had to move the party indoors. A couple asked me early on to hang with them, and I did, even to a brief after party at a west St. Louis nightspot. I felt hung over from the alcolol (plus some congestion in my sinus area), but otherwise got home OK. A feww hours later, I was refereeing soccer at St. Louis U. High. My three games included a middle on an under-14 boys' Midwest Regional League match. They went well.
I hosted the IPMS Gateway business meeting on Tue., 28 September, where we planned the October meeting and discussed other club business. The Invitational was discussed at some length with suggestions offered to improve on it, successful as it was.
Friday night, I went to the Mehlville High Homecoming football game, for the first half. (The Panthers were losing big at that point.) When I got home, I had a message about two brief editorials for a new magazine that needed an edit right away. I got those done within 15 minutes and send them back. Looking forward to this new magazine that comes out later this month.
Sunday morning, I took the annual soccer referee fitness test at Parkway Northeast Middle School. I passed all three components: covered about 2100 meters in the 12-minute run; ran the 50-meter dash in about 7 seconds; and, ran the 200-meter dash in about 37 seconds. A bit sore afterward, but satisfied to get this done and to be one step closer to recertification for another year.
That's it for now. Off to canvass again tonight. Later.

A Successful Show, and Other Recent Happenings

One week ago, IPMS Gateway held its Invitational in Eureka. It was a success. I don't have attendance figures, but it seems it was about 25 to 33 percent higher than a year ago. Contest entries were approximately 180, about 30 more than a year ago. There were 43 vendor tables sold, when 40 was the original limit, and the vendors reported good business. Overall, a successful show and I was very happy and proud to be involved in it, ranging from helping set up the night before to helping tear down right after the show. We'll be back at Hitter's Choice Cages in Eureka on 10 September 2011 (09/10/11) -- save the date!'
I had a busy Sunday afternoon -- four soccer games I officiated, with two middles. Three of these games were under 14s (two boys, and a girls to end the session), plus a under 16 girls game next to last. They generally went well, although I did git a major blister on my one little toe, which continues to bother me as I write this. Hopefully, it won't be a big bother tomorrow, when I officiate two games.
I did some canvassing this past week (Monday and Wednesday nights, and Saturday mid-days) for Charlie Dooley's reelection campaign. It's been going well. I also worked a Dooley phone bank for two hours Thursday night. I'm cautiously optimistic about Dooley's chances in November.
Back to modeling: I have been working on an Italian ship model for Tuesday's IPMS Gateway meeting. The model contest features an "Anything Italian" special category, and I hope to get this ship done by then.
That's it for now. Later.

Inside and Waiting for the Show to Start

Last week I found out I did not get the editing job I interviewed for last month. They decided to go with someone else they felt had more of what they were looking for. In the meantime, I've got my resume out for at least three other positions, and hope to hear back soon on those.
Been doing some canvassing and phone banking for Charlie Dooley's County Executive campaign. It's going well. The income from the canvassing has been most appreciated, and the experience of reaching out to voters on behalf of Dooley is most interesting. Just under 8 weeks before Election Day.
Fall youth soccer season got underway late last month. I had some games played on artificial turf in the afternoon sun and humidity. It felt like 100 degrees F on the field. The games went well, though, and I was OK, apart from a blister on my foot during the first set of games. The foot's better now, though.
The IPMS Gateway to the West Invitational is tomorrow in Eureka. Can't wait for it. I've gotten the show mentioned on several local community calendar web sites, and a few international scale modeling web sites, plus delivered some show flyers to some area hobby shops. It would be a good show. I have a model I plan to finish today in time for the contest at tomorrow's show. Not the greatest, but at least it's something.
Last Monday, I marched in the Labor Day Parade through downtown St. Louis. I was with some fellow Robin Carnahan supporters in the parade, which ran just over half an hour. I haven't been in a parade for over 20 years, and it was neat to do.
I'm inside now, staying out of the light rain this morning. Take care. Later.

Fingers Crossed

In the past two weeks, I tried to stay inside as much as possible, due to the high heat in St. Louis lately. Temperatures regularly topped 90 degrees F, with heat indices reaching 110 degrees F. It's cooled down lately.
I had an interview on Thu., 5 Aug. with a book and magazine publisher for an editor position there. It went well and I hope to hear back within the next two weeks to see if I am a finalist for this job, and would have an interview with the president/publisher of the firm. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Meanwhile, I started a temporary part-time job on Sun., 8 Aug. as a paid political canvasser for a local candidate. I'll be out two weeknights and one weekend day going door-to-door talking with likely voters and promoting the candidate. It's quite a big of leg work (no pun intended), and not easy when it's real hot and muggy out, but I like this work. Plus, I'll get a bit of money out of this to help me carry on until I land with a full time job.
Fall soccer season is starting soon, and I'll have games to work this Sunday. I worked the men's league last Sunday and those games were fine.
IPMS Gateway meeting is tonight, and I'll be running that. Our Invitational contest and swap meet is just under one month away (Sat., 11 September). Looking forward to it. I got our show mentioned on a few local community calendar web sites and a couple of scale modeling sites as well.
Take care & talk to you soon.

Good Signs

Some recent events have been good ones for me. On the weekend of 23-25 July, I had dinner and happy hour with the Stress Free Fridays crowd at Copia Urban Winery on Washington Ave. in downtown St. Louis, and lunch the next day with the Livin' Life to the Fullest MeetUp Group at Growlers Pub in Sunset Hills. Both were good experiences and I highly recommend both venues.
I did some political phone banking recently, in advance of tomorrow's primary election and looking ahead to the general election in November. Last Tuesday, 27 July, I ran the IPMS Gateway business meeting, which Doug Barton hosted at his house in Forestell, Missouri. This meeting went very well and some important club business was discussed.
Thursday, I interviewed for a part-time political canvassing job in St. Louis County. When I got back from that interview in Clayton, I received an e-mail about a full time job I had applied for the day before. The e-mail said the HR agency acting for the client I applied for wanted to do a phone interview with me, which I did the next morning. It was a success and I have a second interview in person with that client this Thursday morning. Wish me luck!
Thursday night, I went downtown to see Chuck Berry perform in Kiener Plaza. I had to leave the show early, to rest up before the phone interview, but my car had overheating problems. I limped into a gas station and called AAA Emergency Road Service, which came and towed my car to a servicing place. The next morning, that servicing place called me to say the car needed repairs to the radiator fan and related items, which I told them to do. It was ready later that morning, but it set me back a few hundred dollars. Ouch! However, it had to be done.
Saturday morning, I picked up my models from the IPMS Gateway display this past month at the Jefferson County Library branch in High Ridge, and delivered them to our display this month at the St. Louis County Library's Prairie Commons Branch in Hazelwood. Looks like we'll have another nice display to promote our hobby, our club, and our upcoming Invitational.
Yesterday morning and early afternoon, I officiated two men's soccer games at DeSoto Park in St. Louis. The games went fine -- they were both one-sided in the scores, but not too much trouble among the players.
That's it for now. Later.

Heated Up

Last Saturday, I started with some political canvassing in the morning. It was for a couple of Democratic candidates in south St. Louis. Got that done within two hours. That afternoon, I was in St. Charles to referee matches in the SLYSA College Showcase, a series of friendlies involving boys and girls teams. I worked three matched with under-19 girls teams, in the high heat and humidity. (The heat index topped 100 degrees F.) As we were working the second games of the day for these teams, we shortened the matches to 40 minute halves and had two water breaks per half (about 1/3 and 2/3 through the half), yet some players were slow by the end of the match. I had a hard time making it through the second half of the third and final match of my set, but the match ended up fine and SLYSA was most appreciative to the referees for our efforts that day.
Ran the IPMS Gateway meeting last night, which featured our annual Slamfest. Members interested in this (myself and seven others) had two hours to assemble and finish a model, which was then judged by the meeting attendees in a "beauty contest." I got mine done -- the kit snapped together, and then I painted it. It didn't win any of the top three awards (gift certificates to a hobby shop), but it was OK with me.
Earlier in the day, I send notices of the IPMS Gateway Invitational coming up on 11 September in Eureka to local community calendar web sites. Several of them have it up now, and others should in the coming days. I also sent a release on the Invitational to a community newsmagazine serving Eureka and its vicinity, and hopefully they will run it in the issue prior to the Invitational.
I'm off to do some volunteer work tonight. Later.

Into the Dog Days

The FIFA World Cup ended yesterday, with Spain's 1-nil win over the Netherlands in the Final. I was at O.B. Clark's in Brentwood at the St. Louis United FC Watch Party. A fun time, even if the match wasn't such fun. At least the better side won, and I like that.
I got back on the pitch -- albeit a small-sided one -- on Sun., 27 June at Gordon Moore Park in Alton, Illinois. I refereed several games in a 3v3 tournament. They were mostly youth teams, with one adult co-ed match. These were short games -- 12-minute halves -- so we worked them in every 30 minutes. It was different, but no major hitches.
The next day, our monthly soccer referee clinic discussed recent World Cup refereeing controversies. This year's tournament provided plenty of discussion material for us referees. I'm back on the pitch this Saturday afternoon, working a college showcase tournament in St. Charles. Need to hit the road(work) for that one.
The 4th of July found me on the Gateway Arch grounds as a volunteer for Fair Saint Louis. I started out in the K-Zone children's area, supervising some activities (ring toss games, hands-on with musical instruments, coloring with crayons), then moved to beverage services that afternoon. I finished the fair helping staff the information booth. I finally left the grounds just over an hour after the fair ended, then finally hit the road home some time after that (what with the traffic in all). Tiring, but satisfying to be helping out at such an event.
I went to a pair of Straight Up Hook Up Meetup events late last month, which were nice. I'm keeping an eye on my wallet, with money being a bit tight at the moment.
Last Tuesday (6 July), I ran the IPMS St. Louis meeting, which included membership renewals and officer elections. I was retained as president for another year, by acclaimation, and ditto for the rest of the officers. I must be doing something right.
Last Saturday afternoon, I did some canvassing for two Democratic candidates: Robin Carnahan for U.S. Senate and Charlie Dooley for St. Louis County Executive. I walked a block in Affton, and there I ran into a friend from college I had not seen in years, Mike Vogt. He's a Missouri State Representative who's having to leave this year due to term limits, so Mike's out campaigning for the canidate he wants to succeed him. Small world.
Anyway, take care & talk to you soon.

Scoring in Additional Time

Yesterday, I was in the crowd at O.B. Clark's in Brentwood to watch the USA-Algeria game in the FIFA World Cup on TV. Our rather large crowd had many ups and downs of emotions, until Landon Donovan's late goal won it for the Stars and Stripes. Talk about pandemonium! The crowd erupted in shouts, cheers, and high fives. What a heart-stopping game and what a fun time it was to catch the action with a bunch of fellow soccer fans. Now, it's on the the Round of 16 vs. Ghana on Saturday. Go USA!
Last weekend, I stayed inside as much as possible. Saturday, I was in Troy, Illinois for a IPMS Gateway Meet & Greet at A&R Paints & Crafts. There were five of us there for about four hours, working on models and meeting with customers to promote our club and hobby. It went very well, I thought, and the shop owner was sure pleased to have us.
I did venture outside on Sunday, refereeing men's soccer that afternoon. My middle was a rough one, with one team fouling and otherwise causing mischief, and the other team complaining all game. I had to make a report on the players I sent off, which I duly sent in the next day to the league office.
Back to IPMS Gateway: I hosted the monthly business meeting last Tuesday. That was fine, with much discussion of our upcoming Invitational in September. Yesterday, I was at Pujols 5 Westport Cafe for a Fair Saint Louis volunteer rally. I received my volunteer shirt and my assignment for the fair: vendor services, on Sunday morning, 4 July. I helped sell beer and soda last year, so this should be no big problem for me. Looking forward to the fair on the Gateway Arch grounds 3-4 July.
Later.

Update (No Goalkeeping Howler Edition)

Unlike Robert Green, I will endeavor to firmly stop all shots my way. (More on that later.)
Last Saturday, 5 June, I tuned up for the FIFA World Cup by watching the USA-Australia friendly from the Amsterdam Tavern in St. Louis. It was my first time at that place, and find it's a great place to have a beer or two and watch soccer on TV. That was considering I was there in time for the 7.30 am kickoff, after a night of drinks and socializing at Lola in downtown St. Louis the night before. It was the weekly Stress Free Fridays stop, and it was enjoyable as always.
Sunday morning, after attending services at Calvary Presbyterian Church and the start of Calvary's annual picnic, I got home and then went to Mehlville High School for two boys' soccer games. It was the last match day in the SLYSA season, and I was in the middle for an under 16 match. Just after the match ended, one of the players (who I had cautioned for dissent in the second half) used an expletive in criticizing my refereeing. I showed him the red card for the foul language. His coach apologized to me and gave me his card, which I turned in with the report on the incident the next day to the league office. True, it was the last match of the season, but I felt it still needed to be recorded and let the league handle it from there.
Monday afternoon, the installer came to the house to install AT&T U-verse for our TVs, internet and landline phone. My TV was hooked up and so were two of my parents' TVs, including a large-screen HD set. We now have a larger number of channels than we used to have with Charter, plus I now have a wireless connection for my internet. The downside is not being able to record on my DVDs copywrited programming.
Wednesday night, I went to the In Spot lounge in west St. Louis for the bi-weekly Single2Mingle get togethers. It's a chance for singles to meet up while playing a variety of board and card games. It was my second trip to this event (I was there two weeks before), and although the organizer said it was a bit dull (these events are hit-or-miss), I had a nice time there.
Friday night saw me in St. Louis' Soulard neighborhood for the first get together of the StraightUp Hook Ups Meetup group. It was just myself and two ladies, including the organizer, but it was a nice time at The Porch, a wine store. We and a few other customers sampled seven wines and enjoyed some grilled meet and vegetables. The three of us had a fine time together and can't wait for the next meeting of our group soon.
Friday morning, I began my vigil by the TV set and the computer to follow the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. I'm avidly following all the action, including that of the USA. I was at the Soccer Park this afternoon with about 300 other soccer fans for a watch party for the England-USA match in Rustenburg. What a match! The English jumped to a 1-nil lead four minutes in, but the Stars and Stripes equalized in the 40th minute on Clint Dempsey's shot and Robert Green's unsuccessful save on said shot. That was a howler for sure! The match ended 1-1; the USA won a point, while England lost two points. Looks like the Americans have a nice start on their World Cup tournament.
At the watch party were Frank Borghi and Harry Keough, the goalkeeper and a defenser, respectively, for the USA the last time they met England: the 1-nil USA upset 60 years ago, at the 1950 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. I knew Harry rather well and I had met Frank some years ago at a soccer banquet. It was marvelous meeting with two St. Louis and USA soccer greats.
I'll be watching World Cup action in the morning, then officating Latino men's games in the afternoon. Later.

It's Looking a Lot Like Summer Now

Just came inside a few minutes ago after cutting the lawns (back, then front). It's warm and humid out -- the usual for late spring and summer here in St. Louis. I officiated some boys soccer games last weekend, which were played on artificial turf. It made it easily 10 to 15 degrees warmer than the air temperature. Somehow, we all got though those games fine. Youth season's about over -- just two games Sunday afternoon (also on artificial turf) for me until August. Can't wait for the FIFA World Cup to start in 7 days from now.
My census work is almost done. Got in some more visits recently but had no luck with contacting several residents. Yesterday, I was told I didn't have to visit those places again, that it would be brought up with the apartment complex's higher ups. I may go to another block in need of visits, but am on standby for now.
Last Monday, I attended the Greek Festival at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Town and Country, Missouri. They have this every Memorial Day weekend and it's a fun time to eat Greek food and enjoy Greek music and dancing.
I ran the IPMS St. Louis meeting Tuesday night, and will run and give a presentation at the IPMS Gateway meeting in two weeks.
That's it for now. Later.

Happenings Lately

The past two weeks have seen me on my work with the Census Bureau. I can't go into specifics, but the 2010 Census work is progressing. Visited a number of residences yesterday and got some household interviews done. Hope to keep up the good work in the week ahead.
Had some soccer referee assignments the past few weekends. Last Wednesday, I worked an under-17 boys league game for which I was getting my annual maintenance assessment. It went well, I passed the assessment, although the assessor had a few areas for me to work on. (Fair comments all.) I have games tomorrow morning. The youth leagues spring season ends early next month, and (apart from men's league Sunday games) that's it until August when the new season starts.
I ran the IPMS Gateway meeting last Tuesday night. Had a pretty good turnout for the contest, with its "Seats Two" special category. I had a two-seat aircraft model entered, although it wasn't a serious contender for placings. At least I got the two points (one for entering overall, one for entering in the special category) for Modeler of the Year, which is important.
Last Thursday afternoon, I was at Busch Stadium for the game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Florida Marlins. I bought the ticket last weekend using a discount code I got when I ordered a combo meal at McDonald's. The Cardinals came from behind to win this game, 4-2. Despite the overcast skies, I really enjoyed the game and being at Busch for the game. I had parked at Union Station and took the Metrolink train to and from the game.
Sad news to end this entry. My godmother, Harriet Schwable, died last Wednesday at age 68. She had some health problems in recent years, but she is now at peace. My parents and I attended a memorial service for her this morning. Her husband George, daughter Glenda, son-in-law Jeff, grandson Tyler, and son George (Bud) were there. We were glad to be with them in this time. My Mom especially was a long-time friend of Harriet's and our families really enjoyed each other's company. I have fond memories of her and her family's friendship. I dedicate this blog entry to Harriet's memory.
Later.

May Days Are Here

The last week of April, I completed training for enumerator work with the US Census Bureau. Myself and others around the country are visiting households who did not mail in their census questionnaires in late March or in April. I started the canvas work this past week. I can't comment on specifics on that work, but it is progresssing and hope to have this all done by the last week of May.
Also been working some soccer games. Spring youth season ends early next month. Games mean more as the season winds down, so I need to be especially alert. I have some games later today and tomorrow.
Not much else happening of late. Hope to have more to write you soon.
Later.

A busy weekend, then a calm week

Early Saturday morning, I drove to Liberty, Missouri (northeast of Kansas City) for the IPMS West Central Missouri Model Fest show. It was very nice, with a new show high for attendees, contest entries (about 400), and vendors. I helped judge two armor categories and had a fine time there. I also got to meet some IPMS members from the Kansas City, Wichita and Des Moines areas who were at the show, and plug the IPMS Gateway Invitational this September. I drove home that night.
The next morning, I was at Jefferson Barracks Park refereeing Latin American Soccer League men's games. These were my first games in this league's season, and I was a bit apprehensive going in. They went pretty well, although the first game (my middle) did test my game control skills considerably.
Tuesday night, I ran the IPMS Gateway general meeting, where I gave a report on the Kansas City show and heard about the display we put on last Saturday at a veteran's home in St. Louis County. That display went real well and may lead to more projects involving those veterans.
Not much else happening this week, but got a call yesterday from my Census Bureau crew leader reminding me about the first training session this Tuesday morning. Looking forward to some full time work for a few weeks.
Later.

Some April This and That

Since April Fool's Day, I refereed and watched some soccer. The watching included two friendlies at the A-B Soccer Park in Fenton on 3 April: St. Louis U. vs. SIU-Edwardsville men, followed by AC St. Louis vs. Kansas City Wizards. Last Sunday (11 April), I was there to watch Saint Louis Athletica open WPS action with a 2-0 win over FC Gold Pride. The day before (10 April), I refereed two under-18 boys' games in Maryland Heights in a college showcase event. They went well; they were practically friendlies, intended for the players to show their stuff before college coaches in attendance.
You should notice something in new photos I'll have taken next week. Specifically, new eyeglasses. I had an eye exam done on 6 April -- the first time in about five years -- and the eyes are fine, apart from some nearsightedness in my left eye. I then ordered two pairs of glasses, which should come in the first half of next week.
I went to a networking event last Tuesday (13 April), where I got wind of a communications professionals networking group. That group has a meeting early next month, which I will attend, and maybe they can be of help to me in my job search.
Counting down the days until I start my US Census Bureau temporary job on 27 April, with four days of training. Should be interesting for about eight weeks.
Last Wednesday, I drove to Smartt Field, an airfield in Portage de Sioux, Missouri (St. Charles County) for a meeting of the Missouri Aviation Historical Society. It's a group that's been around a bit, and it was my second meeting I went to. I hope to see this group grow in the years ahead.
That's it for now. Later.

A New Post (NOT April Fool's)

Last Friday, I joined the Stress Free Fridays crowd at the Black Label bar in downtown St. Louis. First time there and I like the place. I even autographed a $1 bill that was taped to the bar's rear wall.
Rain late last week caused my Saturday morning games to be called off, but I did get in the games Saturday afternoon. It was a tournament played at Sportport and it involved younger youth teams (under-14 and below), which made a nice change of pace for me. I worked three games, all of under-8 to under-11 kids, and they went fine. However, a lot of rain overnight washed out my games on Sunday for that tournament.
I got good news by phone last Monday, when the US Census Bureau asked me to come back to them as an enumerator this year. I had worked in this job a year ago, helping lay the groundwork for the 2010 Census. I would be doing the same, including visiting households that did not mail their census forms back. (Our household did so last month.) Training for four days would be in the last week of April, then the work would run for up to eight weeks.
Last night, I worked two boys soccer games at the SLYSA Complex. I had an armful in the under 17 match, when I had to deal with a rather unruly team and coach. I issued nine yellow cards -- six to one team -- and they were mostly for unsporting behavior. I also warned both teams' coaches, separately, for stepping out of their technical areas. One coach did it again, and I dismissed him. They were irate, especially as the match ended in a draw, with the tying goal scored at the end of the time I was adding on waiting for the coach to leave the field area. I wrote up a report and turned it in to the league office this morning. We just can't have that kind of behavior among coaches in youth soccer. It sets a bad example for their players and just makes the referees' jobs more difficult.
Looking forward to Stress Free Fridays tomorrow night, and Easter weekend. No big plans, except to watch a pair of soccer friendlies Saturday night at the Soccer Park in Fenton. At 5 pm, St. Louis U. and SIU-Edwardsville renew the Bronze Boot Game, followed by AC St. Louis vs. Kansas City Wizards at 7 pm. Should be neat.
Happy Easter all my fellow Christians. Later.

Amid up and down weather

Sorry for not writing here sooner. Just kept getting sidetracked.
Ran the IPMS Gateway general meeting on Tue., the 16th, which went very well. I also ran the club's business meeting one week later, in which we planned the April general meeting and discussed other club business.
Refereed some games last weekend. Glad they were on artificial turf, as it got a bit wet late in Saturday's set and on Sunday. The games went well, though.
I'm very happy that healthcare reform passed Congress last weekend. This country urgently needs it, no matter what the nay-sayers would have you think. It seems a bunch of know-nothings want to hijack this country. I say nothing doing to them.
On a lighter note, I went to Chaifetz Arena last night to see St. Louis U. beat Princeton 69-59 in the College Basketball Invitational (CBI) semifinal. The Billikens advance to play Virginia Commonwealth in the CBI best-of-three finals starting Monday. Go Billikens!
Later.

On the run, in the mist

This past weekend was interesting. On Friday, my sister-in-law Melissa passed to me a link to a job listing. It was for associate editor at a magazine group on the East Coast. I checked out the listing and the firm, and really liked what I saw, so right away I applied for this position. I also started contacting people I knew who might know something about the firm I applied to, and one person who did deal with that firm wrote a short e-mail recommending me to that firm. I'll check back in the next couple of days. Stay tuned.
Friday night, I was at Escalade in University City for Happy House with Stress Free Fridays (SFF). I had not been to one of SFF's events for a few months, due to one thing or another, but I had a nice time at this one. I had a couple of drinks, sampled chicken wings and salad from the buffet, and danced a bit to music spun by a DJ. Nice, if a bit inebriated at the end of the night. I also felt a bit sick to my stomach the next morning, but I gutted it out and officiated four boys games the next day.
Sunday morning started with a Midwest Regional League under 16 boys match in Maryland Heights, which started in misty conditions. It was a armful to control, and I sent one player off for his second caution of the match. (I had to write a report after the match, which went to the league office today.) After a rest time at home, I was back on the pitch, this time in Fenton, for two league games, played through a mist. That's seven games in two days -- a hard stretch. But, my colleagues and I got through them fine.
Today, I went to a forum in Clayton for Proposition A, a sales tax measure on the St. Louis County ballot next month for mass transit. Spokespersons for and against the proposition stated their cases, answering questions posed by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce (sponsor of the forum) and audience members. I am in favor of this measure and hope it passes.
After that, I went to the nearby Barnes & Noble for lunch in their cafe (soup and coffee). While there, I chatted briefly with one of the cafe people, who was a colleague of mine when we worked at the Barnes & Noble store in Chesterfield just over 3 years ago. She's still there and doing fine. We hadn't met in a few months and it was good catching up on things.
That's it for now. I have IPMS Gateway's meeting to run tomorrow night. Hope to see you at Calvary Presbyterian Church for that one. Later.

About last night

Before I begin, a correction: In my last blog entry, I mentioned visiting Tom Doll's house last Saturday. Actually, it was the previous Saturday, 27 February. I apologize for the error.
Moving forward, I am at home now awaiting word on a possible temp assignment I was first given word on Tuesday night. I do want to get outside today, as it's nice and sunny.
Late yesterday afternoon, I met up with some fellow supporters in downtown St. Louis in advance of President Barack Obama's visit to a fund-raising dinner. We gathered on the sidewalks near the hotel hosting the dinner, holding signs and chanting our support for health care reform. There was a good amount of Obama supporters on hand, along with some opponents on the opposite corner. We were there for about 2 hours and I felt good about standing up for what's right.
I'm looking forward to a happy hour tomorrow night, and some soccer refereeing this weekend. Take care.
Later.

Roaring in like a lion...

Last week, I finished editing on a couple of articles for a new magazine coming out. I was asked to go back to the original articles, as the editor said they had more room for these articles than was first thought. I did so, though incorporating the facts checked on the previous edit. Hope to hear feedback on that job soon.
Saturday afternoon, I went to the Lake St. Louis home of Tom Doll, aviation historian and author. It was my first time to his place, which is like a mini-archive of aviation history (especially US Naval Aviation). He hosted a meeting of a group of aviation history enthusiasts, several of whom I know from my IPMS activities. This was my first time at the meeting, but it won't be the last. The group is starting to gel and we hope for bigger things ahead.
Had a busy stretch of soccer refereeing last weekend: four games within 18 hours. I had two under 18 boys' league matches Sat. night, including a rather busy middle in one game. I sent a player off for striking an opponent, and issued several other cautions. Both teams were a handful to keep in line, but the game ended well. The next morning, I ran lines on two Development Academy matches (under 16 boys, then under 18 boys). There was that added pressure of the competition level, but we got though them fine. At least I could chill out at home and watch the Academy Awards. I didn't have a dog in that show, but was fascinated by who would win Oscars. I did add to my home DVD collection with two I bought at a store yesterday (The Blues Brothers, from 1980, and 1992's Malcolm X), using a gift card Rick and Melissa sent me for my birthday last month.
Back to last weekend, I borrowed Mom's car for getting to and from my games, because my Saturn was in the shop. After being unable to get my emissions inspection situation fixed at the Firestone place, I took it to a Chevy dealer that was a Saturn authorized repair center. They had to replace some engine sensors that had gone bad, and the repair came out to around $500. (Ouch!) However, the car did pass inspection, so I got my Saturn back home and renewed the registration online, all on Monday.
I almost forgot: Last week I got my federal and state income taxes done. My Dad helped out using the computer program TurboTax. I got the tax returns filed electronically, and can look to a bit of a refund in the coming weeks.
Later.

Trying to Stay Warm & Optimistic

It's rather cold here in St. Louis today. As I write this, it's about 27 degrees F. Should warm up to the 40s this weekend.
Early this week, I put in the final editing touches on my first two articles on my parttime job. They needed to be cut down in size (word count) to fit in the magazine, so I did so. The firm I'm working for on this is very pleased so far with my work. They sent me another article to edit early this week. It needed to be cut down considerably, as well as fact checked. I should have this one done later today.
Been following the Winter Olympics in Vancouver on TV and online. It's always neat for me to watch the Olympics, since I find something to like in just about any sport.
Last Saturday afternoon, I joined with several others from IPMS Gateway in a Meet & Greet at HobbyTown USA in Arnold, Missouri. The good weather cut down on visitors considerably (first decent day in a few days), but otherwise our event was a success. I got started on another kit, and the store was very happy to have us.
Tomorrow night, I'm at the Eastern Missouri Soccer Referee Association's Trivia Night in Oakville, Missouri. Should be a fun time, and I'll let you know about that in my next blog entry.
Later.

Out of the Box

Last night I ran the IPMS Gateway meeting. We had a lower than normal turnout, most likely due to the cold, snowy weather. We did have a nice turnout of models for the first Modeler of the Year points contest of 2010. This contest featured the Out of the Box special category, as usual for our first contest of the year. In Out of the Box, you can't make any modifications to the model from the existing kit. I entered my just completed 1:72 scale Bf 109E-3 aircraft model, built straight from the Hobby Boss kit, but with Eagle Strike decals. (This is allowed under our Out of the Box rules, as long as you bring documentation for those decals with your entry, which I did.) It didn't win any placings, but at least I got two points (one for entering in the contest overall, and one for the special category entry). We also had a build night, so several of us brought kits to work on at the meeting.
Not much else happening of late. Monday, I did get back one of the articles I edited last week, with a few questions and suggestions from the supervisor. I addressed them and sent that article back the same day. I may get another article to edit in the next day or two.
I'm also following the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. I sure enjoy the Olympics, especially for the smorgasbord of sports I normally don't see on TV very often.
That's it for now. Later.

Into mid-February (birthday included)

One week ago, I turned 46 years old. Not a big celebration, for sure. My parents took me out to dinner after church, at the Pasta House Company Italian restaurant. Enjoyed a nice meal there, then came home for cake. I also got some new photos of yours truly taken.
This past week, I started a part time article editing and fact checking job. The paperwork finally came in from a consulting firm out of town. I'll leave the details out of this blog, at least for now. However, I can tell you that after signing and returning an agreement, I received in my e-mail two articles for editing. I got those done, with facts and names checked. The supervisor was greatly appreciated by my work on the first article, and was to have given me feedback on the second one once things settled down at her office. Looks like this will be a good part time job for now.
I refereed boys outdoor soccer yesterday afternoon and evening, and girls futsal earlier today. Games went fine. Nearing end of winter seasons for both. Be good to get out and do more games outdoors, as the weather should pick up. Got some snow late last night and this morning. It will be rather chilly for awhile.
No real sweetheart for Valentine's Day today, but I did send notes to several gals I know.
By the way, since I got my computer back from repairs, it's been running real well.
Take care.

Back from computer limbo

It's been nearly a month since I last wrote here. My computer was out of commission for much of that time. First, I took it to the service facility at the retailer I bought it from for a diagnostic. There, they told me they had problems with the motherboard and suggested I contact the manufacturer. I did, and they suggested I send it to one of their service centers, which I did. They said they could not find a problem with the motherboard, but did check the battery and replace it. I got it back from the manufacturer last Thursday afternoon, then took it to a local computer repair shop. They checked it out and said it was fine. Back home, I got the computer hooked back up and reinstalled software or updated software already on the computer. It's running good now, although there is a update that isn't installing. I may take it over to that local facility to have them look into this.
With that out of the way, it's time for a catch up. On Mon., 18 Jan., I met animal husbandry scientist and autism activist Temple Grandin at the Fenton Barnes & Noble store. She was there to plug her latest book, "Animals Make Us Human." There were quite a few people with autism spectrum disorders there (like myself, with Asperger's syndrome), so this was a great thrill for me. (Photos I took of Dr. Grandin at that event are posted.)
The next night, 19 Jan., I ran the IPMS Gateway meeting -- my first as club president. It went real well, as we had our annual swap & sell and kit auction, the latter to benefit our club. After Fred Amos started off as auctioneer for a few minutes, I took over for the rest of the auction. One week later, I hosted the monthly club business meeting here.
Sat., 23 Jan., I refereed a boys under-15 match at the Soccer Park in Fenton, then stayed to help officiate some mini-games that were tryouts for AC St. Louis, the new men's pro soccer team (North American Soccer League). I worked some futsal the next day, 24 Jan.
I had a job interview the last week of January for a temporary proofreading position at a consumer products firm in the metro area. Unfortunately, I did not get the position. I worked futsal on Sat., 30 Jan., but weather cancelled outdoor games I had been assigned to work. On 29 Jan., my refereeing colleague and friend Bill Tatlock died after a long illness, and I attended the visitation on Mon., 1 Feb.
I ran the IPMS St. Louis meeting on Tue., 2 Feb. Not much to discuss, but did show off a few newly built models and a couple of new kits.
With my computer back in commission, I should be back to a more frequent blog posting pattern soon. Tomorrow, I enjoy my birthday. (Yea!) Take care.

TCM's 31 Days of Oscar Moodboard

Brrr!

We got some snow here last night and early this morning -- about 3 inches, according to the National Weather Service. It's a dry snow, so it wasn't too much problem shoveling it off the driveway. However, the winds do blow the snow about, and make it feel colder than it already is (well below freezing). We may see lows below 0 degrees F this weekend, with wind chills of minus 10 to 15 degrees F.
New Year's was so-so. Not much going on besides sitting around the house. I did get to enjoy an item I ordered with a Amazon.com gift certificate Brian gave me for Christmas: the TV miniseries "Band of Brothers" on DVD. I had seen most of this series on History channel, but not all 10 episodes in full. Thanks to the DVD set, now I have. "Band of Brothers" was a must-have on my list of DVDs to acquire.
I am working on a model that I hope to complete by next month's IPMS Gateway meeting, to enter in the Out of the Box contest that month. More on that model in a later posting.
Here's wishing all of you a great 2010.
Later.